Caleb Foster
Artificial nails can be a great way to cover up brittle, soft, or damaged nails, but they can also worsen existing nail problems. To get acrylic nails, a type of artificial nail, the surface of your natural nails must be filed until they feel rough, which can make your natural nails weaker. Artificial nails can also irritate the skin around your nails and lead to nail infections. Frequent touch-ups can also damage your natural nails, leaving them thin, brittle, and parched. However, if you are still interested in getting artificial nails, there are ways to reduce the damage, such as choosing soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails, and going to a salon that uses an LED curing light instead of a UV curing light.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To cover up bitten fingernails, to make nails look longer and more slender, or to disguise brittle nails |
| Types | Acrylics, gels, fiberglass wraps, silk wraps |
| Application | Applied by a professional nail artist or at home using a kit |
| Maintenance | Requires touch-ups every 2-3 weeks, filing, and buffing |
| Removal | Soak off in acetone or file off |
| Health Risks | Weakens natural nails, irritates skin, increases risk of nail infections |
| Recommendations | Use soak-off gel nails instead of acrylics, avoid cuticle trimming, reserve for special occasions |
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What You'll Learn
How to apply fake nails
Applying fake nails can be an easy way to achieve a glamorous look without the expense of salon visits. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply fake nails at home:
Firstly, ensure your nails are clean and dry. Remove any existing nail polish with nail polish remover. If your nails are bare, wipe them with polish remover to get rid of any natural oils, as this will ensure the glue lasts and doesn't bubble up or chip.
Next, prepare your nails by trimming and filing them. Use nail clippers or scissors to trim your nails, ensuring they are all even. File your nails to give them a smooth edge. It is recommended to keep your nails short so they don't interfere with the artificial nails.
Then, gently push back your cuticles using an orange stick or a cuticle pusher. Be careful not to rush this step, as cutting your cuticles can be painful and may prevent you from continuing the application.
After that, buff the surface of your natural nails to roughen them, which will help the fake nails adhere better. You can use a nail buffer with a grit number of no more than 180, as recommended by experts.
Now it's time to select the appropriate fake nails for each finger. Press-on nails come in different sizes, so choose the right fit to ensure they look natural and last longer. If you are in between sizes, it is best to size up.
Apply a small dot of glue to both your natural nail and the fake nail. Avoid over-gluing, as a small drop will expand once it hits a flat surface. Place the fake nail just above your cuticle, keeping it straight, and press down onto the nail bed. Use an orange stick instead of your finger to avoid accidental gluing. Hold for about 10 seconds to ensure no air bubbles are present.
Finally, you can decorate your fake nails with nail polish, sparkles, or more elaborate designs. You can also add a top coat for extra shine and to ensure the fake nails last longer.
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How to disguise grown-out nails
False nails can be a great way to disguise nails that are prone to biting or are brittle. However, as your natural nails grow, the fake nails are pushed upwards, leaving a gap between the cuticle and the artificial nail. Here are some ways to disguise grown-out nails:
Filing and Buffing
If you want to disguise the ridge caused by the gap between the cuticle and the artificial nail, you can file down the fake nails and then use a buffer to create a tidy appearance. Be careful not to file the natural nail, as this can create grooves. Buffing your nails will help to rub away the bottom of the ridge, making the artificial nails blend in with your natural nails.
Nail Polish
Applying a couple of coats of nail polish can help to camouflage the gap between the cuticle and the artificial nail. Avoid using pearly nail polish, as this can make the ridge more noticeable. Instead, opt for a sparkly or glittery nail polish, which can help to fill in the physical space and create a smooth appearance. You can also use a chunky glitter nail polish to cover the grown-out portion of the nail, creating a stylish ombre effect.
Infills
Every ten to fourteen days, you should fill in the space between your cuticles and the artificial nails to prevent moisture from becoming trapped and causing mildew or fungal infections. While you can purchase acrylic nail kits and attempt to do this yourself, it is recommended to visit a professional nail technician to ensure the best results.
Removing Artificial Nails
If you want to remove your artificial nails, it is best to have them soaked off at a salon. Peeling them off can cause damage to your natural nails. After removal, you can opt for a regular manicure to smooth the nail bed and promote the growth of healthy nails. Cuticle moisturisers can also help to nourish your nails and encourage growth.
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Pros and cons of different types of fake nails
There are several types of fake nails, each with its own pros and cons. The most common types are acrylic, gel, dip powder, and press-on.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are one of the most common types of fake nails. They are made by mixing a liquid monomer and powder polymer to create a paste, which is then applied to natural nails. The mixture hardens and forms a durable layer over the natural nails. Acrylic nails are known for their durability and strength and can be shaped and filed to create various looks. However, they can also weaken and damage natural nails if not applied or maintained correctly. They typically last about three weeks before they need to be removed or filled, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Gel Nails
Gel nails are another popular option that creates a glossy, natural-looking finish. They use a different type of polymer than acrylics, resulting in a lighter and more flexible finish. Gel nails are applied using a gel-based polish that is cured under a UV lamp, which gives them their hardness. They are known for being easy to remove and less likely to damage natural nails. However, they are typically more expensive than acrylic nails and may not be as durable or resistant to chipping.
Dip Powder Nails
Dip powder nails are a type of fake nail with a longer-lasting finish than regular nail polish. They consist of a powder and liquid monomer that is applied in layers, creating a glossy and long-lasting finish that can last up to four weeks. Dip powder nails are gentler on the nails and skin than other fake nail options and don't require the use of a UV lamp. They are also softer and more flexible than other extension methods, making them a good choice for those who want a more natural look.
Press-On Nails
Press-on nails are a fast and convenient option that comes in various shapes and sizes. They are easy to apply and remove, as they come with adhesive already attached, and don't require any special tools. Press-on nails are a good choice for those who want to avoid damaging their natural nails.
Overall, the best type of fake nail depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget. Factors to consider include timeline, budget, natural nail health, desired look, and level of maintenance.
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How to care for natural nails under fake nails
Artificial nails can be a great way to cover up brittle or damaged nails, but they can also cause nail problems. To care for your natural nails under fake nails, it's important to take several precautions. Firstly, avoid frequent touch-ups and nail enhancements as these can damage your natural nails over time. Reserve artificial nails for special occasions to give your nails a chance to repair themselves.
When getting artificial nails applied, ask your nail technician to skip the cuticle trimming. Cuticles protect your nails and the surrounding skin from infection. Trimming them can make it easier for bacteria and germs to get inside your body and cause nail infections, which can be difficult to clear. Instead, keep your cuticles moisturized to prevent them from becoming rough.
To maintain your artificial nails, fill in the space between your cuticles and the artificial nails every 10 to 14 days. Moisture can get trapped underneath the nail, leading to mildew and discoloration. If you notice any discoloration, remove the artificial nails and consult a dermatologist. Resist the urge to pick or bite off your artificial nails, as this can damage the nail underneath. Instead, have them soaked off in an acetone solution at a salon.
When removing artificial nails, be aware that the chemicals used can irritate the skin. Soak-off gel nails are preferable to acrylic nails, as they are more flexible and less likely to cause cracking. Choose a salon that uses an LED curing light instead of a UV curing light to harden the gel. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the look of artificial nails while minimizing the risk of damage to your natural nails.
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How to safely remove fake nails
Removing fake nails can be a tedious and time-consuming process, and it is not usually recommended to do it at home as it can damage your natural nails. However, if you are in a pinch and need to remove them yourself, there are ways to do it safely. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove fake nails:
Step 1: File Down the Nails
Use a nail file to gently remove as much of the top coat and acrylic layer as possible. This step will help the acetone penetrate faster in the next step. Be careful not to file your natural nails, as this can cause damage.
Step 2: Soak in Acetone
Acetone is a effective solvent for breaking down fake nails. You can soak your nails in a bowl filled with acetone, or you can soak a cotton ball or pad in acetone and place it on your nail, then wrap your finger in aluminium foil to hold it in place. Let the acetone work for 20-30 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the Nails
After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or orange wood stick to gently push off the softened acrylic. Be patient and gentle, and if you feel resistance, do not force it. You can re-soak your nails for a few more minutes to help loosen the adhesive.
Step 4: Buff and Moisturise
Once all the fake nails have been removed, use a fine-grit nail file or buffing block to gently buff any remaining residue from your nails. Then, wash your hands and apply cuticle oil and moisturiser to rehydrate your nails and skin. Acetone can be very drying, so it is important to nourish your nails and skin after removal.
It is worth noting that removing fake nails can be a delicate process, and it is always an option to go to a salon to have them professionally removed. However, if you choose to remove them yourself, following these steps will help ensure the safety and health of your natural nails.
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Frequently asked questions
There are three main types of fake nails: acrylics, gels, and wraps. Acrylics are a type of artificial nail that requires filing the surface of your natural nails until they feel rough, which can make your natural nails thinner and weaker. Gels are more difficult to remove than acrylics and need to be filed down before they can be soaked off. Wraps are a good option for those with nails that aren't very strong, but the glue used is water-soluble, so they might not be ideal for those who spend a lot of time in water.
To maintain fake nails, you will need to fill in the space between your cuticles and the artificial nails every 10 to 14 days. It is important to be diligent about this maintenance, as moisture can get trapped underneath the nail, leading to mildew and nail discolouration. If you notice any discolouration, remove the fake nails and consult a dermatologist.
As your natural nails grow, fake nails will be pushed upwards, creating a noticeable gap. To disguise this, you can file down the fake nails until they are level with your natural nails. Be careful not to file your natural nails. You can then use a buffer to create a tidy appearance and apply nail polish to camouflage the gap.
Fake nails can leave your natural nails thin, brittle, and dry. Additionally, the chemicals used in artificial nails can irritate the skin around your nails. To reduce nail damage, reserve fake nails for special occasions and give your nails time to repair themselves between applications.
